Biography

The Art of Miniature Painting

Rebecca is a master of the traditional art of miniature painting. Contrary to the common misconception, the term "miniature" in this context does not refer to the size of the artwork, but rather the meticulous level of detail the artist achieves. In fact, Rebecca has studied extensively with some of the world's leading experts on miniature painting and has written numerous articles on the subject for publication. She emphasizes that a miniature painting can be executed on any scale, from gigantic wall-sized works to intricate handheld pieces.

 A Lifelong Connection to Nature

Growing up in a family that cherished the outdoors, Rebecca has always felt a deep connection to the natural world. With the encouragement and support of her parents, she discovered her talent for art at a young age and made the decision to pursue painting as a career in her mid-teens.

Conservation Through Art

Rebecca's primary motivation as an artist is to use her work to raise awareness and funds for wildlife and habitat conservation. She actively participates in numerous fundraising events for these causes. To ensure the accuracy and authenticity of her paintings, Rebecca dedicates significant time to observing and photographing the animals she depicts, often taking thousands of reference photos during a single shoot. She believes that this hands-on research and fieldwork are essential to capturing the essence of each species.

Accolades and Memberships

Rebecca's dedication to her craft has earned her numerous accolades and memberships in prestigious organizations. She is a signature member of Artists for Conservation and the Society of Animal Artists, as well as an invited member of the International Guild of Realism. Additionally, she is a member of numerous watercolor Societies, further demonstrating her mastery of the medium. She has exhibited in prestegious venues around the world.

 

 

Support for Conservation: 

Rebecca is deeply passionate about both her art and the wildlife that is the primary subject of her paintings. She actively collaborates with environmental and conservation organizations to support their efforts to protect animals and their habitats. Rebecca and her family have generously donated numerous original paintings and prints for auction and raffle to raise funds for a wide range of conservation causes, including:

  • North American and international wildlife conservation organizations
  • Raptor rehabilitation centers
  • Nature centers
  • Zoos
  • Safari Club International
  • Wildlife rescue facilities that care for abused and injured animals

Through these donations, Rebecca's artwork has directly contributed to the vital work being done to safeguard vulnerable species and their ecosystems. Her commitment to conservation is evident not only in the subjects she chooses to paint, but also in her active support of the organizations on the frontlines of this important work.

 

 

Special Achievements: 

Rebecca Latham, a talented watercolor artist known for her realistic paintings of nature and wildlife, has achieved several notable accolades throughout her career. Rebecca's artwork has been featured on several important conservation stamps. In 2011, she won the Maryland Bear Conservation Stamp competition. More recently, in 2019, her painting "Explorer" was selected as the winning design for the 23rd Annual Maryland Black Bear Conservation Stamp. Rebecca was named the Minnesota Ducks Unlimited Artist of the Year, a testament to her commitment to waterfowl conservation through her art. These achievements, along with her active involvement in wildlife and habitat conservation fundraising events, demonstrate Rebecca's passion for using her art to make a positive impact on the natural world.